P&N BLOG | How Frequent Are Winter Weather-Related Car Accidents in Early Spring in Illinois?

Car accidents are a common occurrence in Illinois, often attributed to various factors, with adverse weather conditions being a significant contributor. Particularly during the early spring months, the lingering winter weather poses heightened risks on the roads. Among the 1.2 million weather-related car accidents that happen annually in the United States, a notable portion occur on icy, snowy, or slushy pavements, with 18 percent transpiring while snow or sleet is actively falling.

Studies confirm Illinois as one of the states witnessing a higher incidence of fatal car accidents during winter, averaging around 27 yearly. This trend continues into the early spring months, amplifying the dangers of winter driving in Illinois. In such cases, individuals involved in accidents caused by negligent drivers during winter weather conditions may pursue compensation through personal injury claims.

Factors Contributing to Spring Snowstorm Vehicle Crashes

Winter conditions introduce numerous hazards that impede safe driving practices, leading to accidents if drivers fail to adjust or respond appropriately. In early spring, snow-related collisions often occur due to:

Reduced Traction: When there have been periods of warm spring like weather: snow, ice, or slush on the roads significantly impairs a driver’s control over their vehicle. Braking distances increase, and vehicles may skid when maneuvering, especially if drivers fail to adjust their speed or maintain safe distances. Additionally, the presence of “black ice” further compounds the risk, as it may not be immediately visible but can affect vehicle stability.

Limited Visibility: Snowstorms, heavy fog, or other winter weather conditions diminish visibility on the roads. Also, inexperienced drivers may not know how to best utilize heat/defrost mechanisms to defog windshields when the temperatures fluctuate between warm and cold. Drivers must exercise caution and reduce speed to enhance their ability to perceive obstacles and other vehicles.

Mechanical Failures: Poor vehicle maintenance exacerbates risks during winter driving. Improperly inflated tires reduce traction, malfunctioning windshield wipers or headlights impair visibility, and mechanical failures compromise overall vehicle control.

Hazardous Roads: Already treacherous roads, such as the busy highways and rural routes in Illinois, become even more perilous with the onset of winter weather during early spring. Precipitation can freeze quickly when the temperature drops before crews can treat driving surfaces. 

Unsafe Driving Practices: Violating traffic laws or driving recklessly escalates the risk of accidents, particularly during winter weather conditions. Behaviors like distracted driving, speeding, tailgating, and failing to adhere to traffic signals pose heightened dangers on snowy or icy roads, increasing the likelihood of collisions and subsequent injuries.

While car accidents occur for a wide variety of reasons, adverse weather conditions are one common factor in collisions that take place in Illinois. Winter weather during the spring months can be especially dangerous. If you or someone you know has been injured due to negligent driving, call/text The Law Offices of Parente & Norem, P.C. today at 312.641.5926 for a free case evaluation, or fill out a contact form here on our website.